Name: Mozzarella Cheese Sticks
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 mozzarella sticks or block mozzarella cut into sticks; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 eggs, beaten; 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or seasoned); 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Oil for frying; Marinara sauce (for serving)

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Mozzarella Cheese Sticks are a timeless appetizer featuring gooey melted cheese encased in a perfectly golden, crispy coating. They’re ideal for parties, snack platters, or a fun, cheesy treat for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cheese sticks are crispy on the outside, warm and stretchy on the inside, and irresistibly satisfying. Homemade mozzarella sticks taste far better than frozen ones and can be prepped in advance, then fried or baked when needed.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Mozzarella cheese (cut into sticks)
All-purpose flour
Eggs
Breadcrumbs (preferably seasoned or panko)
Garlic powder
Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper
Oil for frying
Marinara sauce (for serving)

Tips by Elsa:

Freeze the cheese sticks before frying to prevent leaking.
Double coat with egg and breadcrumbs for an extra crisp shell.
Panko gives a crunchier finish than regular breadcrumbs.

directions

Cut mozzarella into sticks and freeze for 30–60 minutes.
Prepare three bowls: flour in one, beaten eggs in another, and seasoned breadcrumbs in the third.
Dredge frozen cheese sticks in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs. Repeat egg and breadcrumb steps for a thicker coating.
Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry sticks in batches until golden brown (about 1–2 minutes).
Drain on paper towels and serve hot with marinara sauce.

Tips by Elsa:

Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying—maintain oil temperature for even results.
If baking, brush sticks with oil and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 8–10 minutes.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Freezing time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 5 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mix.
Stuffed Option: Tuck a pepperoni slice between two cheese pieces before breading.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
Air Fryer: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 6–8 minutes.
Different Cheese: Try cheddar or string cheese.

Tips by Elsa:

For uniform size, use string cheese sticks.
Always freeze before cooking for best texture.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best texture.

Tips by Elsa:

Do not microwave—cheese may melt unevenly.
Freeze uncooked, breaded sticks for up to 1 month and fry directly from frozen.

FAQs

Can I use string cheese?

Yes, it’s perfect and easy to portion.

Why is my cheese leaking?

The coating may be too thin or cheese not frozen long enough.

Can I bake them?

Yes, but brush with oil for better color and crispness.

What dipping sauces go well?

Marinara, ranch, garlic aioli, or spicy ketchup are great options.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes, freeze breaded sticks and cook when needed.

What breadcrumbs are best?

Panko breadcrumbs offer the crispiest texture.

Is it okay to fry in olive oil?

Use neutral oils with high smoke points like canola or vegetable.

How long should I freeze them?

At least 30 minutes; up to 1 hour for best results.

Can I use block cheese?

Yes, cut it into ¾-inch thick sticks.

Are these kid-friendly?

Absolutely—they’re a favorite snack for all ages.

Conclusion

Mozzarella Cheese Sticks are the ultimate cheesy snack—simple to make, easy to prepare in advance, and guaranteed to satisfy. With the perfect crunch and irresistible stretch, they’re always a crowd-pleaser.

Mozzarella Cheese Sticks

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Author: Mariem
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Mozzarella Cheese Sticks are crispy, golden-fried snacks with a gooey, melted cheese center—perfect for parties, game days, or an irresistible cheesy treat.

Instructions

Cut mozzarella into sticks and freeze for 30–60 minutes.
Prepare three bowls: flour in one, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in the third.
Dredge each frozen cheese stick in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs. Repeat egg and breadcrumb steps for a double coating.
Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry cheese sticks in small batches for 1–2 minutes or until golden brown.
Drain on paper towels and serve immediately with marinara sauce.